Geophysics

Geophysics applied to civil engineering is a geoscience which mixes geology and wave physics to complement geotechnical and environmental studies. Geophysics enables knowing the site geology and measuring the physical properties of in situ soil and rock, in a non-destructive way.

The geophysical engineer in Quebec is normally a geological engineer specialized in geophysics. By mastering the physics of seismic, acoustic, and electromagnetic waves as well as electricity in different geomaterials, the geophysical expert is able to propose the best combination of geophysical methods for the site investigation. Geophysics can be extended to topographic, hydrographic and drone imagery surveys.

Geotechnical technicians assist engineers and geophysicists in their fieldwork. Their responsibility is to collect the best quality of geophysical data to facilitate interpretation.

There are three ways to know the geology of a site : surface observations, geophysical surveys or drilling. The site geology should be well-known before starting a major project. A geophysical survey beforehand can be used to depict the rock and thus optimize the subsequent drilling campaign. Drilling is necessary to calibrate and verify the results of geophysical surveys.

Geophysics uses surveying techniques (seismic, electrical and electromagnetic) from the surface or boreholes. Geophysics is an economic science that optimizes soil investigation in a non-destructive way. For example, in geotechnics, a seismic refraction survey can be used to interpolate and profile the rock between boreholes. In environmental studies, an electromagnetic survey (EM31 and ground penetrating radar) may reveal the presence of buried tanks or the extent of soil contamination.

Groupe ABS geophysics team is made up of specialized engineers and technicians. We have almost 10 years of experience in geophysics applied for major construction projects across the country and in Africa.

Geophysical services target a wide range of clients across all sectors :

  • Transport infrastructure (roads, bridges, airports, railways)
  • Buildings (private, commercial or industrial)
  • Power facilities (dikes, dams, transmission lines, wind turbines)
  • Telecommunications
  • Mines and natural resources

Services related to Geophysics

  • Vibration and noise control
  • Dynamic tests and measurements of the driving energy
  • Non-destructive studies of concrete structures (georadar, corrosion potential, CSL)
  • Detection of buried pipes and tanks
  • Seismic surveys to determine the seismic category of location (MASW, Downhole, refraction)
  • Electrical resistivity surveys
  • Borehole surveys (optical and acoustic geocameras, logging and more

Geophysics is a powerful technology that will grow significantly in the coming years. Geophysics is in the same technological category as drones and artificial intelligence.

Geophysics can help to economically select the best place for the construction of a major structure.

Geophysics is not there to replace drilling but rather to optimize geological investigations. Geophysics combined with drilling helps to avoid claims and surprises that cause unnecessary delays.